₦airaland Forum

Idemili North Mayor, Tipper Drivers Back Soludo, Tackle Extortion

Titus Maduako Eleweke

The Mayor of Idemili North Local Government Area in Anambra State, Hon. Stanley Nkwoka, has agreed on a strategic partnership with tipper drivers across the state to support Governor Charles Soludo’s re-election campaign to address the challenges facing the union, particularly extortion and harassment.

Speaking during a meeting with the executives of the Tipper Drivers Union comprising 74 members at the Idemili North Secretariat on Thursday, Hon. Nkwoka urged the drivers to unite and speak with one voice to effectively engage with the government and resolve longstanding issues.

“It is better to form a common front for the actualization of Governor Soludo’s second term bid. After that, we can present our collective demands for actions,” Nkwoka said.

He noted that Soludo’s victory in the November 8 gubernatorial election is almost certain and advised opposition candidates from wasting their resources.

“I pity anyone who thinks he can challenge Soludo and win. He will just be wasting his money,” he stated.

Nkwoka, a former tipper driver himself, said his appointment as Mayor was a testament to Governor Soludo’s commitment to inclusivity.

“When my name was considered for this role, many questioned how a tipper driver could be appointed a mayor. But the governor ignored those gossips because he is rational and meticulous. That’s why I am here today,” he said.

Describing tipper drivers as hardworking individuals, not criminals, Nkwoka assured the union that their partnership with the government would lead to greater recognition and lasting solutions to their problems.

“The governor listens. If we work together with him, we can resolve every challenge. The tipper driver is not a criminal but a hard working citizen who lives off the sweat of his brow,” he added.

He praised this administration’s ongoing infrastructural improvements, particularly in road construction, which the tipper drivers said has significantly reduced vehicle maintenance costs for them.

“Your vehicles rarely go to the mechanic these days because of the good roads built by this administration. That is why we must support the government to continue his good works,” Nkwoka said.

He said that since they have agreed to formally establish a pro-Soludo support group within the tipper driver community,there is to show commitment and achieve a greater goals.

Responding on behalf of the union, President of the Tipper Drivers Association, Mr. Akaigwe Augustine, expressed readiness to collaborate with the government but lamented the persistent harassment of tipper drivers.

“Our problems are too many. One of our members was arrested at a sandpit allegedly associated with gunmen. His truck has been impounded for four months, and we have made several attempts to secure it release with no success,” Augustine said.

He criticized the tendency of security agents to punish drivers rather than hold pit owners accountable.

"Drivers go to load sand, and security agents descend on them instead of the pit owners, who often flee the scene. It is unfair and unjust,” he said.

The Chairman of the Onitsha Tipper Drivers, Mr. Ebuka Unekwe, also expressed concerns about the intimidation they face from a group known as "Ndi Aka Odo" at the Oba sandpit.

“They arrest our members arbitrarily even food vendors working near the pit are not spared,” Unekwe said.

“We supported Soludo in the last election, and we are still willing to support him,but he must show us mercy and end the daily hardship we endure from both state and non-state actors.”he lamented.

Chairman of the Tipper Drivers Board of Trustees (BoT), Comrade Ogechukwu Ndozie, highlighted systemic issues facing members, calling on Mayor Nkwoka to help the union understand the government's position and how to address their problems effectively.

“All government agencies treat us like we are not from Anambra. Keke and bus drivers have had their levies reduced, but we still pay heavily and also on every trip,” he said.

Ndozie urged the government to ease the burden on tipper drivers, especially regarding arbitrary arrests and the detention of vehicles.

“We commend the Governor’s good work, but we are suffering. The government agencies threaten our ability to work and take care of our families.” he stated.

In a follow-up interview with Insideoutnews, Mayor Nkwoka described tipper drivers as among the most peaceful and organized transport groups in Nigeria.

“We have made efforts to reduce drug use among our members. Today, Anambra tipper drivers are more disciplined and organized than ever before,” he said.

On the issue of extortion, he clarified that the majority of these activities are being perpetrated by non-state actors.

“Those collecting illegal fees from drivers are not agents of the government. They are self-appointed extortionists,” he explained.

He stated that the governor has never authorized such actions and had even instructed mayors not to collect money from drivers.

“No mayor in Anambra collects money from tipper drivers today. The only payments are official government levies,” Nkwoka stressed.

He also addressed the issue of levies per trip, noting that if drivers wish to renegotiate them, they should formally approach the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue.

“If we want change, we need to engage through proper channels,” he added.

The partnership between the Idemili North Mayor and tipper drivers marks a significant step toward mutual collaboration between the grassroots workforce and the state government. While the support for Governor Soludo’s re-election is strong among the drivers, their message is clear: support must be met with action. Only a fair, inclusive, and harassment-free operating environment will ensure lasting loyalty and sustainable progress.

A response to a worthless hit piece masquerading as journalism


By Barrister Christopher Chidera

The article published by TheCable under the laughable headline “How Nnamdi Kanu Sought to Please South-Easterners with Hilarious Propaganda” is a textbook example of cowardly journalism steeped in ignorance, deceit, and a thinly veiled contempt for truth. It is what happens when a failed pen meets a sold soul—when the British Council’s intellectual errand boys pick up their master's whip and lash out at the only man bold enough to tell the truth in a nation built on lies.

Let us begin with the name “Pephel.” For those familiar with Igbo cultural logic and naming conventions, this pseudonym is a dead giveaway this isn’t an Igbo voice. This is not someone with blood ties to the land of the rising sun. It is either an outsider desperately trying to sound native, or worse, an Efulefu one of those tragic Igbos who abandon their heritage for crumbs at the table of their slave masters. Either way, the piece fails from the first sentence. A fraud with a fake name cannot speak on Igbo realities.

The aim of the article is transparent: to sow division between Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his people, to demystify him, and to paint him as a purveyor of baseless conspiracy theories. But what this amateur hatchet job reveals is a deeper British-sponsored panic,panic at Kanu’s growing hold on the Igbo collective psyche, panic at his ability to awaken even the most reluctant mind to the reality of the Nigerian deception.

What the writer and their British handlers fail to understand is that Nnamdi Kanu doesn’t need propaganda to win the loyalty of his people. He has truth. He has consistency. He has suffered more in pursuit of freedom than all these cowardly pen-wielders combined. He was abducted, tortured, renditioned, and yet he remains unbroken while his critics remain unknown, irrelevant, and afraid.

Let us address the real question:
If Kanu is so full of “hilarious propaganda,” why has the Nigerian government never charged him with the very thing they claim is false,the allegation that President Buhari died in 2017 and was replaced by an impostor? Why did Abubakar Malami SAN, the then AGF, charge him for calling Buhari names, yet omit the most sensational claim that “Buhari” was a Sudanese double?

Because they know it is not a joke. It is a wound they dare not open.

Ask Garba Shehu why he cooked up the absurd tale that rats chased Buhari out of Aso Rock because the clone could not access biometric-locked doors. Ask the Nigerian media why none of them has the spine to request a live DNA test. Ask yourself why, after Buhari allegedly died in the UK, no global leader from the Queen to the Pope issued a formal statement. Not even a tweet. Not even a whisper.

But of course, these so-called journalists will never ask these questions. They are too busy collecting brown envelopes and recycling colonial talking points. This is the role many Yoruba journalists have played historically tools of divide and rule, deploying clever-sounding nonsense to undermine southern solidarity. Instead of interrogating how the Fulani caliphate stole Kwara from them, they obsess over Kanu, a man who never stole a dime, never held political office, and never compromised.

To the Efulefu Igbos who cheer this garbage: understand that you are dancing on the graves of your ancestors. Your silence and collaboration are part of why Igbo lands remain militarized, our youths massacred, and our freedom denied. Kanu is not the enemy. Your cowardice is.

And to TheCable, you have now confirmed your place in the long history of media houses that chose comfort over courage, paychecks over principles, and silence over truth. When history is written, you will not be remembered as journalists but as jesters in the court of tyrants.

Africa’s biggest curse isn’t colonialism — it’s our refusal to think. We worship power, not truth. We obey, we conform, we fear, but we don’t question. We reject facts if they’re uncomfortable and attack messengers who speak hard truths. Until Black Africans learn to reason critically, challenge authority, and demand evidence over emotion, we will remain trapped not by foreign hands, but by our own mental laziness. This sickness of the mind is why we are lied to, looted, and led in circles.

And that is why Nnamdi Kanu is in prisonnot for lies, but for truths too dangerous to be spoken.



Barrister Christopher Chidera

Writer is an Abuja based Human Rights Lawyer

Buhari's Death Exposes Nigeria’s Political Hypocrisy,Top Lawyer Blasts Leaders

Human rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has described Nigerian elites as political hypocrites who only praise the dead while ignoring the failures of the living.

In a strongly worded statement titled Wednesday Musing: “Saint Buhari” – Nigeria’s Newest Economic Martyr?, Ejiofor criticized what he called a wave of revisionist eulogies following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

“In a cruel twist of irony,” , “many of those who once condemned Buhari’s eight-year rule as rudderless and disastrous are now lining up to extol his virtues.”he stated.

Ejiofor questioned whether the sudden praise reflected any genuine reevaluation of Buhari’s legacy or whether it was simply a desperate coping mechanism in the face of Nigeria’s deepening economic and political crisis.

“As tributes poured in at his burial,” “you would think he had redefined leadership in Nigeria. Some called him ‘transparent,’ others ‘visionary’ and ‘economically astute.’ But where was this so-called foresight when fuel subsidies were mismanaged, foreign exchange policies were incoherent, borders were closed without logic, and the blame for every misstep was pinned on ‘16 years of PDP’?”he asked.

Ejiofor’s remarks underscore a growing frustration among Nigerians who see political leaders and elites as more concerned with protecting their own legacies than with speaking the truth or acknowledging failure.

The statement reads:

Sometimes, the only way to look like a hero in Nigeria is to be followed by a worse villain.

The recently announced death and burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari was not merely a national event; it became an unintended referendum on Nigeria’s deepening economic crisis. In a cruel twist of irony, many who once condemned his eight-year rule as rudderless and disastrous are now eulogizing him. But do these praises reflect reality; or are they a desperate response to a worsening national condition?

Let us not forget the facts. Buhari’s administration left behind a battered economy; a divided nation and a weakened currency. Under his watch, Nigeria plunged into two recessions. Inflation soared. Public debt ballooned. Insecurity remained rampant. His vaunted anti-corruption drive, once hailed as a moral crusade, eventually came to resemble a political tool rather than a principled policy.

And yet, at his burial, tributes flowed as though he had redefined leadership. Some called him “transparent”, others “visionary” and “economically astute.” But where was this foresight when fuel subsidies were mismanaged; foreign exchange policies were chaotic; borders were arbitrarily closed; and blame was ceaselessly cast on “16 years of PDP”?

Here lies the uncomfortable truth: what has changed is not Buhari’s legacy, but the current level of suffering under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In less than a year, the Tinubu administration has, in the eyes of many, made Buhari appear almost saintly. Not because Buhari governed well; he did not; but because Nigerians are now enduring something far worse.

Buhari’s infamous parting words echo louder today: “Nigerians will beg for my return.” Once dismissed as delusional, they now carry an eerie resonance.

Had this news of his passing broken three years ago, many Nigerians might have responded with relief; or even celebration. But in a country now crippled by hyperinflation, erratic fuel pricing, deepening poverty, and escalating insecurity, his burial was marked not with jeers but with solemnity. Not because he earned reverence, but because Nigerians are weary, disillusioned, and fast losing hope.

Yes, Buhari was buried like a hero; not because he led like one, but because history has placed him beside something darker.

Once again, we are reminded: in the Nigerian story, villains can become saints; not by their deeds, but by the depth of national despair

The question remains: Have Nigerians learned anything at all?

Signed:

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor (KSC)

July 16, 2025

Gullibility Is Dangerous, Think Smart, IPOB Lawyer Tells Ndigbo

Human rights lawyer and lawyer to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has urged Ndigbo to reclaim their agency, rise above rhetoric and illusions, and take decisive action in defense of their collective destiny.

In a statement released on Tuesday and made available to our reporter, Ejiofor emphasized that this is no season for gullibility or sentimentality.

"The Igbo nation stands at the edge of a precipice. All visible signs point to an uncertain future one further threatened by a deliberate and calculated conspiracy to destabilize our land and silence our voice," he stated.

He described the current period as a defining moment,an urgent and honest call for Ndigbo to put on their thinking caps and confront reality with clarity and resolve.

"This time demands more than emotion or surface-level loyalty," "It requires discernment,the ability to distinguish true sons of the soil from infiltrators, and genuine allies from adversaries disguised in familiar robes."he said .

The prominent lawyer lamented what he described as a growing vulnerability among the Igbo people, saying it has become a source of collective shame. He warned that continued inaction could have generational consequences.

"It is no longer sufficient to wail or complain," "Ndigbo must rise with a renewed consciousness,strategic, visionary, and bold. Our salvation will not come from borrowed wisdom or external validation, but from our ability to think independently and act beyond convention." he added.

Ejiofor call for introspection and unity, urging Ndigbo to recognize this moment as a pivotal opportunity to shape their own future through critical thinking, informed decisions, and courageous action.
The statement reads:

"Our vulnerability has become our shame, and the cost of further inaction may be generational. It is no longer enough to lament. We must rise with a new consciousness, strategic, visionary, and bold. The salvation of our people lies not in borrowed wisdom, but in our ability to think independently and act beyond convention.


This is a defining moment, an honest and urgent call for Ndi Igbo to don their thinking caps. The times demand more than mere sentiment; they require the discernment to distinguish genuine sons of the soil from embedded moles, and allies from adversaries cloaked in familiar garb.

Now more than ever, we must summon the intellectual courage to interrogate every narrative, no matter how captivating, alluring, or seemingly truthful it may appear on the surface. Truth is not always in the telling, for beneath many carefully chosen words lie ulterior motives not easily discerned. Not all who speak eloquently speak sincerely; some are harbingers of destruction disguised as patriots.

This is no season for gullibility. Ndi Igbo must reclaim the power to decide for themselves, to look beyond rhetorics and illusions, and to act decisively in defense of their collective destiny. We are standing at the precipice, and by every observable sign, the future remains uncertain, worsened by a deliberate, calculated conspiracy to destabilize our land and silence our voice.

Our vulnerability has become our shame, and the cost of further inaction may be generational. It is no longer enough to lament. We must rise with a new consciousness, strategic, visionary, and bold. The salvation of our people lies not in borrowed wisdom, but in our ability to think independently and act beyond convention.

This is a call to mental reawakening. A call to reject the dangerous habit of blind agreement. It is time to start asking the hard questions: Who benefits from our chaos? Who profits from our confusion? Who plants seeds of division while pretending to water unity?

We must choose reason over emotion, insight over impulse. We must stop being easy prey to manipulation. Our dignity demands it. Our survival depends on it. Our children will ask what we did when the alarm bells rang.

Let this be our awakening: a resolute reminder that all that glitters is not gold. Not every shining object is worthy of trust or admiration. We must learn to see with discerning eyes and defend the interest of Ala Igbo with unwavering clarity.

This is not a time to condemn or call out our vulnerable ones; far from it. Rather, it is a time for deep, deliberate thinking. I advocate no more than this, critical reflection and sober introspection, for the good of Ala Igbo. Only through honest thinking can we chart a path forward that preserves our dignity, safeguards our future, and restores hope to our land.

The time is now. Enough is truly enough

#NdiIgboThink
#OdimmaAlaIgbo
#BiafraAwakening
#CriticalConsciousness
#DefendAlaIgbo
#TimeToReflect
#IgboRenaissance
#SayNoToManipulation
#TruthBeforeRhetoric
#ThinkBeyondNow
#RiseAndDiscern
#StrategicThinking
#NotAllThatGlitters
#SaveOurFuture
#AwakeNdiIgbo
#BarEjioforWrites

Signed ;
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor ( KSC)
July 15, 2025".

Two Leaders, One Stroke, Two Interpretations – IPOB Lawyer on Shettima & Fubara Twist

Titus Maduako Eleweke

Human rights lawyer and legal counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has criticized recent remarks by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, describing them as both a "true confession" and an example of the double standards that pervade Nigerian politics.

Ejiofor was responding to Shettima's revelation that he was once shielded from removal as Governor of Borno State by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN).

According to Ejiofor, this admission underscores the selective application of constitutional principles depending on political convenience and affiliations.

Shettima also said he recalled a pivotal moment during President Goodluck Jonathan's administration when the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, unequivocally told the President that even he lacked the constitutional authority to remove an elected councillor let alone a sitting governor.

That precedent, Ejiofor argued, was grounded in constitutional propriety and respect for the rule of law, a standard now seemingly abandoned.

In a statement titled "Reflections on Power, Principle, and the Irony of Time Shettima’s Remark and the Contradictions of Today," Ejiofor highlighted the glaring irony: a Vice President who once benefited from constitutional protection now serves in an administration accused of undermining that very same constitutional order.

Specifically, he criticized Shettima for failing to influence President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to halt alleged moves to remove Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reportedly through the declaration of a state of emergency,an action widely perceived as a political strategy to seize control of the state.

"The very constitutional safeguards that once protected Shettima in his hour of political vulnerability are now being tested, if not outrightly disregarded, under the same government he helps to lead," Ejiofor stated.

This, he argued, exemplifies the growing inconsistency in the application of constitutional norms in Nigeria,a dangerous precedent that threatens the foundational integrity of democratic governance in the country.

The statement reads in full "

"In a moment of rare candour, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, recently acknowledged that former Attorney-General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), played a pivotal role in shielding him from an unlawful attempt to remove him as Governor of Borno State. He further recalled how the then Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, unequivocally informed former President Goodluck Jonathan that not even the President had the constitutional authority to remove an elected councillor, let alone a sitting governor.


These recollections hark back to a time when constitutionalism, though imperfect, had valiant defenders within the corridors of power, individuals who, amid immense political pressure, chose to uphold the sanctity of democratic institutions and due process.

But the irony today is glaring.

Vice President Shettima now serves in an administration widely accused of undermining the very rule of law he once benefited from. A telling case in point is the recent imposition of state of emergency in Rivers state by the Tinubu-led Federal Government , under which Shettima is Vice President, a move widely condemned as a thinly veiled ploy to unseat a democratically elected governor through executive fiat. Not only was the Governor of Rivers State unlawfully removed by executive fiat, but the entire democratic institutions and structures in the state , including the duly elected councillors , were effectively dismantled under the administration in which Shettima serves as Vice President. The very constitutional safeguard that once protected Shettima in his hour of need is today being tested, if not altogether disregarded , under the administration he now helps to steer.

In the current political climate, one must ask: Would a similar principled stand be possible today? Would voices like Adoke’s and Tambuwal’s still echo within the chambers of power, resisting unlawful and anti-democratic pressures? Many Nigerians believe the outcome would be tragically different.

Can Vice President Shettima, in good conscience, point to contemporary instances under the present administration where power has been restrained for the sake of democratic integrity? Can he truly claim the same fidelity to constitutionalism he once praised?

Nigeria’s democracy is still young, but its guardians must not selectively interpret or apply its tenets. The legacy of defending constitutional order must not be romanticised as a thing of the past, it must be preserved and practised now. Senator Shettima’s words serve both as a powerful reminder of what was once possible and a sobering reflection of what is at risk of being lost"

IPOB Lawyer to Soludo: Investigate Slaying of 13 Ebonyi Natives in Anambra

Renowned human rights lawyer and legal counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has called on the Anambra State Government and all relevant security agencies to immediately launch a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the gruesome killing of 13 Ebonyi State natives in Ogboji, Anambra State.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Barbaric Massacre of Ebonyi Natives in Ogboji, Anambra State: A Wake-Up Call for Justice and Accountability,” Ejiofor demanded that those responsible for the heinous crime be identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,regardless of their status, connections, or perceived immunity.
Ejiofor unequivocally condemned the killings, describing them as "dastardly acts of inhumanity" that must not be swept under the rug.
He said that justice must be served, not just for the sake of the victims and their families, but to reinforce public trust in the rule of law and the capacity of the state to safeguard its citizens.
Ejiofor stressed that the findings of any investigation must be made public, noting that Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. He said concealing the truth would only embolden impunity and deepen public distrust.
He further warned that failure to address the incident decisively could further erode public confidence in the government’s willingness and ability to protect lives,especially those of citizens who reside outside their states of origin.
Ejiofor’s statement comes amid growing concerns about ethnic violence and rising insecurity across the country.
He called on Governor Charles Soludo to demonstrate leadership and ensure that the perpetrators face swift and uncompromised justice.
The statement reads:
" It is with an overwhelming sense of grief, deep outrage, and utter condemnation that I address the tragic, senseless, and cold-blooded massacre of thirteen (13) defenceless and law-abiding Nigerians of Ebonyi State origin, brutally murdered in Ogboji Town, Anambra State, on the 30th day of June, 2025.
This reprehensible and cowardly act, targeted at innocent citizens who merely assembled for a lawful meeting, constitutes not only a direct affront to their fundamental human rights but an assault on the collective conscience of our nation. It is a grim reminder of the deteriorating state of security across the country and a further indictment of the prevailing failure to guarantee the sanctity of human life.
The right to life, freedom of movement, peaceful assembly and the liberty to reside and engage in lawful activities in any part of the country are constitutional guarantees enshrined under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The heinous killing of these harmless individuals is, therefore, a grievous violation of these sacred rights and an intolerable affront to the principles of justice, unity, and peaceful co-existence.

I unequivocally condemn this dastardly act in the strongest possible terms and demand that the Anambra State Government, alongside all relevant security agencies, immediately commence a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into this tragic incident. The perpetrators of this barbaric crime must be identified, apprehended, and subjected to the full weight of the law, no matter how highly placed or shielded they may appear to be.
We insist that the findings of the investigations must not be shrouded in secrecy. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as this incident, if left unaddressed, will further erode public confidence in the ability of the State to protect its citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or state of origin.

To the bereaved families, the government and good people of Ebonyi State, I extend my heartfelt condolences and solidarity in this dark hour. I urge you to remain calm, law-abiding, and allow the competent security authorities to carry out their investigations unhindered. Retaliation or the resort to self-help will only compound an already volatile situation.
I have unwavering confidence that justice, though delayed, will not be denied. I call on the Federal Government, the National Human Rights Commission, and all stakeholders in the security architecture of this nation to rise to the occasion. This massacre cannot be swept under the carpet. We must collectively say: Enough is Enough to bloodshed and impunity in our land.
The time to act is now"

Strengthen Vigilantes to Confront Fulani Herdsmen in South East- Ejiofor

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, the legal counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and a prominent human rights lawyer, has called on the South East governors to reinforce local vigilante networks within the bounds of the law.

He stated that these efforts must respect human rights while decisively securing the region’s forests and farmlands against the growing menace posed by marauding Fulani herdsmen.

In a statement titled “ALA-IGBO IS UNDER SIEGE: THE GROWING THREAT OF ARMED HERDSMEN INVASION AND THE URGENT CALL FOR A UNITED DEFENSIVE FRONT”, released to correspondents on Tuesday, Ejiofor said that the South East region must urgently improve inter-community intelligence sharing to effectively confront the escalating violence threatening the Igbo people.

He highlighted that across the forests, farmlands, and rural communities of the South East, there is an alarming and systematic occupation by heavily armed and violent herdsmen, predominantly of Fulani origin.

According to him,these groups have effectively transformed large areas of indigenous land into zones of terror and insecurity.

Ejiofor said that the Igbo people cannot afford to endure another orchestrated attempt at annihilation, regardless of the form it takes.

He urged every South East governor, as the constitutionally empowered Chief Security Officer of their respective states, to respond to this crisis with courage, determination, and strategic clarity.

The statement reads in full:

"It is no longer news that Ala-Igbo, the ancestral homeland of the Igbo people, is under siege. What is deeply unsettling, however, is the deafening silence, the lukewarm responses, and the glaring reluctance by those entrusted with our security and well-being to address this existential threat with the urgency it demands.

Across our forests, farmlands, and rural communities, there is a growing and alarming systematic occupation by heavily armed, violent herdsmen, predominantly of Fulani extraction, who have turned vast portions of our land into terror enclaves. From Enugu to Ebonyi, from Anambra to Abia, and Imo State, chilling reports abound: killings, kidnappings, sexual violence, destruction of farms, and brazen extortion- targeted at our most vulnerable ; farmers, women, and rural dwellers.

Let me be clear: this is not mere speculation, nor a matter of rumor or hearsay. Just weeks ago, I received audio recording evidence and minutes from a distress meeting convened in Amansea, Awka, Anambra State, where our mothers, those who nurture the land and feed the region, were reduced to begging self-proclaimed “landlords”- foreign armed herders, occupying their ancestral farmlands, pleading for access to their own ancestral farmland. The heartbreak run deeper when even indigenous Hausa residents, who have peacefully coexisted with us for generations, equally expressed palpable fear and frustration over the activities of these external, armed invaders, acknowledging they too have become captives within a land that once welcomed them.

This disturbing reality is not isolated to Amansea. Similar cries for help are rising from Uzo-Uwani, Isi-Uzo, EHA-Amufu, Ihiala , and many other communities across Ala-Igbo, where forests are forcefully occupied, farms abandoned, livelihoods destroyed, communities silenced under the threat of violence.

Let us not forget ; Ala-Igbo bears the scar of the painful genocide of the 1960s; we must never again allow history to repeat itself - not through weapons of war, nor through calculated neglect and inaction. We cannot afford another orchestrated annihilation in whatever form. Every South East Governor, as constitutionally empowered Chief Security Officer of their states must rise to this moment with courage and clarity.

We acknowledge commendable infrastructural development across some South -East states particularly in states where governance impact is visible. But let us be clear; no edifice, road, or market can thrive on scorched earth. Development without security is hollow, unsustainable, and ultimately meaningless.

The emboldened activities of these herdsmen are a direct consequence of failure - failure to enforce the anti-open grazing and land protection laws than many states have already passed. It is more so when efforts by indigenous people to checkmate the activities of these marauders, are being sabotaged. Multiple states in the South-East—including Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo—have passed anti-open grazing legislation modeled after the landmark Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment, yet, enforcement remains dismal, allowing invaders to grow in audacity and impunity.

How much longer shall we watch this time-bomb tick?

Only recently, footage went viral showing herders grazing cattle within Owerri metropolis, the heart of Imo State’s capital - in outright violation of the law. Yet, no serious government or security reaction followed. Must we wait for an incident of the same scale—the bloody massacre of the indigenous people of Benue and Plateau—before we finally accept that Ala-Igbo is next?

We must take inspiration from the quite but firm community resistance in the South -West, where through local vigilance, state-backed frameworks, and community unity, have protected their lands from similar invasions. Their success shows us that lawful, organized community defence works, where backed with genuine resolve. All hands must be on deck to ensure the protection and safety of the entire Ala Igbo.

This is our wake-up call.

Our Governors must form a united, non-partisan front, leveraging both constitutional authority and community collaboration to:

1. Fully Implement and Enforce Anti-Open Grazing Laws across the region with no more excuses.

2. Strengthen Local Vigilante networks within legal frameworks, that respect human rights but firmly secure our forests and farmlands.

3. Enhance Inter-Community Intelligence Sharing, ensuring early warning signals are acted upon swiftly.

4. Hold the Federal Security Architecture accountable for their constitutional duties, while recognizing that grassroots security is our first line of defence.

5. Document and Publicise all Incidents, engaging local and international human rights organizations to ensure they are aware of the creeping displacement, so no one feigns ignorance when history is being rewritten.

The agricultural backbone of Ala-Igbo is collapsing under the weight of fear. Our mothers, fathers, and youths deserve the freedom to work on their lands without negotiating with terrorists.

The Igbo spirit is resilient, but now is the time to convert the resilience into decisive, coordinated action, let us protect our heritage, our dignity, and our future. The time to act is now.

Ala-Igbo cannot, and will not be surrendered.

Udo diri Ala-Igbo.

Udo diri ndi Igbo.

Udo diri Biafra"

Ndi Igbo’s Woes: Self-Inflicted by Deceitful Elites — IPOB Lawyer Demands Unity Now

Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has described the challenges facing the Igbo people in Nigeria as largely self-inflicted. According to him, these problems can only be addressed through genuine unity, honesty, and introspection among the Igbos.

In a statement issued on Sunday titled "Are Igbos Cursed or the Architects of Their Own Predicament? – A Call for Self-Reflection, Renaissance, and Redefinition of Igbo Destiny", Ejiofor argued that the systematic marginalization of the Igbo in Nigeria’s political landscape has often been enabled by internal disunity, self-serving elites, and shortsighted leadership.

“The world must understand: the Igbo are not cursed,”

“We are victims of both external conspiracies and internal sabotage. However, most crucially, we are victims of our own disunity and self-inflicted wounds. Our history is filled with resilient men and women who defied impossible odds. That spirit must be rekindled.” he said.

Ejiofor lamented that the persistent exclusion and political setbacks experienced by the Igbo cannot succeed without the complicity of certain Igbo individuals.

“It is a painful truth,” he said, “that no significant marginalization or political sabotage against the Igbo can thrive without betrayal from within.”

The renowned human rights lawyer stressed that the time has come for Ndi Igbo to “think outside the box” and confront uncomfortable truths.

He called on Igbo elites to reflect on their roles in the region’s socio-political stagnation and historical betrayals.

“We cannot continue this vicious cycle of deceit,” “Truth must no longer be sacrificed to protect the interests of a privileged few, while the masses suffer in silence. It is time to redefine our collective destiny through unity, integrity, and visionary leadership.”Ejiofor declared.

The statement reads in full:

The Igbo nation, renowned for its indomitable spirit, unwavering resilience, entrepreneurial genius, and egalitarian values , now stands today at a sobering intersection of history , and destiny. The haunting question that echoes in the hearts of true sons and daughters of Ala Igbo remains:
Are the Igbos cursed, or are we the architects of our own predicament?

This is not a rhetorical inquiry but a call to brutal self-reflection , not for self condemnation, but for course correction . Our past , our present and our collective future demand honest answers.

FROM THE ASHES OF WAR; A LEGACY OF RESILIENCE .

In the wake of the Nigeria-Biafra civil war, the Igbo nation was left economically crippled, politically alienated , and socially humiliated. Properties lost, businesses decimated, life savings confiscated. The infamous £20 policy stripped countless families of their life savings, and livelihood destroyed.

Yet, we rose ,

Like the mythical phoenix, the Igbo spirit refused to die. In less than a generation, we rebuilt not only our individual lives but entire economies. From the thriving commercial cities, From markets of Onitsha to Aba, and Nnewi to the urban corridors of Lagos, Kano to Cape Town, London to Guangzho- and even far-flung corners of Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, we reasserted our places on the global economy . The igbo spirit proved unstoppable , a masterclass in survival , reinvention, and excellence.

We became global symbols of resilience, tenacity, and entrepreneurial ingenuity, often surpassing other ethnic groups in economic achievement, despite systemic obstacles.

But herein lies the paradox: economically overachieving, yet politically underachieving; socially influential, yet institutionally sidelined.

THE HIDEEN ENEMY ; WHEN BETRAYAL WEARS AN IGBO FACE.

Sadly , It is a painful reality that no significant prejudice, sabotage, or orchestrated exclusion against the Igbo nation in Nigeria’s political chessboard succeeds without the complicity or treachery of fellow Igbos.
The systematic undermining of Igbo political ascendancy has, time and again, been facilitated by internal disunity, self-centered political elites, and short-sighted personal agendas.

From the aborted hopes of the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, through the repeated political isolation of the South-East, to the modern struggles for an Igbo presidency, a recurring theme emerges: Igbo sabotage by Igbo hands.

Our political elites, driven by personal ambitions , and selfish survival instincts, have repeatedly mortgaged the igbo collective interest for crumbs of relevance. The betrayal is not just disappointing - it is dangerous.

THE PRICE OF FRAGMENTATION ; ARTIFICIAL CRISIS AND INTERNAL SABOTAGE.

The current wave of insecurity plaguing Ala Igbo - from deadly Fulani herdsmen occupying ancestral farmlands to kidnappings, and mindless killings — did not emerge by happenstance. These are the cumulative effects of years of unaddressed marginalization, institutional weakness , and internal complicity.

Take, for instance, the disturbing reality of Fulani herdsmen brazenly seizing control of our forests, only to be shielded by handful of compromised security operatives and political enablers. It is no exaggeration to say that the Igbo homeland is under siege, not merely by external forces but also by collaborators within. The siege is real but we must admit; the gates were opened from within .

The haunting story from Delta State, where a Fulani kidnapper confidently boasted of high-level protection, reveals a grim conspiracy that extends beyond the visible actors. Such audacity is impossible without embedded enablers, and sadly, even within our own communities.

We must acknowledge that Igbo land has become a chessboard for both internal traitors and external mercenaries.

THE RISE OF DISENCHANTED YOUTHS AND THE CALL FOR POLITICAL RENAISSANCE ;

Our youths, disillusioned by relentless marginalization, have increasingly gravitated towards agitations for self-determination, envisioning Biafra as a sanctuary of dignity, justice, and self-governance. This desire, while understandable and deeply rooted in historical trauma, demands sober reflection.

For any struggle: be it for restructuring, self-determination, or political realignment, to succeed, it must be built on truth, transparency, unity, and strategic intelligence, devoid of deceit, manipulation, blackmail , or factional betrayals.

The uncoordinated, emotionally-driven confrontations, often exploited by internal opportunists, only serve to weaken the collective vision. The lives sacrificed daily in pursuit of poorly defined or manipulated agendas demand a re-evaluation of our methodology.

Biafra or any political arrangement for the Igbo cannot be built on internal treachery, manipulation, blackmail or divisive empire-building.

THE HARD TRUTH: WE MUST RETHINK , REDEFINE , AND REBUILD,

The time has come for Ndi Igbo to think outside the box. Our elites must confront their roles in our collective stagnation and betrayal. We can no longer continue the cycle of deceit, where truth is buried to sustain a few at the expense of millions.

We must start asking uncomfortable but necessary questions:
1. Are we victims of a national conspiracy alone, or partners in our oppression ?
2. ⁠How long will we sell tomorrow for fleeting political access today
3. ⁠Can Ala Igbo rise, when her greatest enemies are often within her gates ?

Our pain is real- but so is our power to heal.

The cleansing of our land begins with truth-telling. It begins with rejecting the criminalities, internal betrayals, and manipulative leadership that have permanently positioned us at the receiving end.

We are not cursed — we are complicit. But complicity can be corrected.

A FINAL CALL : IGBO RENAISSANCE IS POSSIBLE - IF WE CHOOSE IT.

The world must know: Igbos are not cursed. We are victims of systemic conspiracies , both external and internal , but more importantly, victims of our own disunity and self-inflicted wounds. Our history is filled with men and women who defied the odds. Let this generation be the one that defied internal betrayal , rediscovered unity , and rebuild Ala Igbo on truth , courage , and shared purpose .

Our destiny is not sealed by a curse but by choices. The choice to betray or to build; to exploit or to empower; to sabotage or to strengthen.

The Igbo spirit has defied war, genocide, and economic strangulation. It can equally defy internal sabotage and external conspiracy , but only when unity, truth, and a transparent vision take precedence over personal ambition.

It is time to sanitize Ala Igbo. To rebuild trust. To define a new dawn anchored on collective progress, not individual crumbs.

The renaissance is inevitable , but only if we rethink, redefine, and reclaim the Igbo destiny.

IN CONCLUSION; WE ARE THE CHANGE WE WAIT FOR;
The igbo spirit survived genocide, survived exclusion , defied systemic sabotage . It can also survive betrayal -from within and without.


The time has come to rethink our politics , redefine our identity, and reclaim our future .

We are not cursed. But whether we remain victims or become victors -is entirely up to us.

APC Adopts Grassroots Campaign Strategy for 2025 Anambra Governorship Election

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has announced its decision to adopt a grassroots-focused strategy for the upcoming November 8, 2025, governorship election.

Speaking at the party’s state secretariat on Thursday, the APC governorship candidate, Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu, who inaugurated 52 grassroots support groups drawn from the 21 Local Government Areas of the state revealed the party's strategy.

According to him,the party's campaign will be rooted in community-level engagement and voter mobilization.

"Our campaign strategy will begin at the LGA level and extend to all 326 wards and the 5,720 polling units across Anambra State," Ukachukwu said.

He urged party members to take personal ownership of the campaign efforts in their respective communities. "Don't give me a strategy to win the state; give me the strategy to win your polling units and wards. If we succeed in each ward and polling unit, we will win the entire state."he added.

Ukachukwu also charged all APC members and supporters to act as campaign directors in their localities.

He assured the people of Anambra that, if elected, his administration would deliver purposeful and people-centered governance.

Addressing the over 980 members of the newly inaugurated support groups, Ukachukwu called on them to intensify grassroots mobilization efforts and encourage citizens to safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

"Our National Secretariat and Mr. President have entrusted us with the mandate to reclaim Anambra for the APC. We must not fail," he added.

In a notable development, Mr. Fabian Ozigbo, a former Head of Logistics for the Labour Party (LP) in Anambra State, led a faction of LP members to the APC event, pledging their support for Ukachukwu’s candidacy.

“I am delighted to align with Evangelist Ukachukwu and the APC because I believe they have a credible vision and real solutions for the future of Anambra State,” Ozigbo stated.

He expressed confidence in the APC's ability to secure victory in the November 8 election.

With the incorporation of diverse grassroots structures and growing political alliances, the APC aims to mount a formidable challenge in the forthcoming election, seeking to end the long-standing control of opposition parties in the state.

2025: APGA and Solution Marshal Unite to Sweep All Anambra Wards



The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Solution Marshal, a key political support group, have agreed to collaborate strategically to ensure the re-election of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo in the upcoming Anambra gubernatorial election scheduled for November 8, 2025.
Solution Marshal is a prominent pressure group within APGA, committed to mobilizing grassroots support for Governor Soludo's second-term bid.

The group plays a vital role in galvanizing party members, stakeholders, and community influencers at ward and polling unit levels across the state.

Speaking at the joint strategic meeting tagged “Solution Marshal/APGA Tactical Meeting 2025” with the theme “Synergizing for Victory: ASSMAL and APGA Strategic Alliance,” the convener of Solution Marshal, Comrade Celestine Anere, emphasized the group’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with APGA leadership to ensure a sweeping victory across all 21 local government areas and every polling unit in the state.

“Our goal is not just to replicate the 21-over-21 feat of the last election,”

“This time, we aim for a total sweep—winning at every polling unit. Governor Soludo has performed exceptionally well, and we are prepared to traverse every community to ensure his re-election.”Anere stated.

In his keynote address, the State Chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, applauded the initiative and assured the group of the party's full support.

He underscored the practical approach the party is taking toward the 2025 election.

“I am not a theoretical politician—I am a practical one. I know how to win elections,”

“This gathering is not for entertainment. It is a strategic mobilization meeting. Every local government chairman must collaborate fully with Solution Marshal. We are going into this election to win, and no one should underestimate our resolve.”Obi-Okoye declared.

He urged the group to maintain unity and discipline, warning that internal conflicts could derail their shared mission.

He also called on Solution Marshal operatives to be physically present at every polling unit on election day to safeguard APGA’s votes.

“There must be no internal wrangling,” . “That is the quickest way to undermine our progress. Total victory requires synergy from the ward to the state level.” he warned

Also speaking at the meeting, Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, praised the role of Solution Marshal in the party's grassroots mobilization.

He acknowledged the local government party chairmen for their unwavering support, noting that they were instrumental in establishing the Solution Marshal structure.

“This is the only group that has demonstrated readiness to partner directly with our local government party leaders,”

“Governor Soludo deserves a second term. Under his leadership, Anambra State has witnessed a level of development never seen before.”Ofodeme said.

He added that no political party can present a credible counter-narrative against APGA, given the administration’s solid record of achievements.

“Our focus now is not just to win, but to increase our margin of victory—from 21 over 21 to victory at every polling unit,” “Anyone who truly supports Governor Soludo must possess a voter card. Go home and mobilize. Get people registered. Let the local governments make budgetary provisions for voter education and mobilization.”he declared.

Praising Solution Marshal’s impact, Ofodeme stated that the group is now synonymous with the party, noting, “There is no difference anymore between APGA and Solution Marshal. We have one mission: to win November 8 decisively.”

Professor Okwy Maduekwe, Chairman of the APGA Tactical Committee, also expressed confidence in the partnership, saying the synergy between the party and Solution Marshal guarantees victory for the governor.

Similarly, Barr. Titus Akpudo, former President-General of the Anambra State Town Union and a senior marshal, reiterated that the primary objective of the gathering was strategic mobilization for Governor Soludo's re-election.

He stressed the importance of internal cohesion, stating, “The majority of problems often arise at the ward level due to lack of understanding. We must not make that mistake this time. Unity of purpose is the key to our success.”

As the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election approaches, APGA and its support arms, led by Solution Marshal, are intensifying efforts to consolidate grassroots support and build a united front to return Governor Soludo for a second term,one they believe is well-deserved.

Abduction of Justice Umokoro inBayelsa Blasphemous Assault on Judiciary,Ejiofor

Human rights lawyer and counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has described the abduction of Hon. Justice E.G. Umokoro of the Bayelsa State High Court, Yenagoa, as a direct and blasphemous assault on the judiciary.

Justice Umokoro was abducted at gunpoint in front of Kilimanjaro Eateries, along the Ekeki axis of the Bayelsa State capital, on Saturday at around 7:30 PM.

In a statement titled WEDNESDAY MUSING: WHEN CRIMINALS WEAR CAMOUFLAGE – THE ABDUCTION OF HON. JUSTICE E.G. UMOKORO AND THE COLLAPSING EDIFICE OF NIGERIAN SECURITY, released on Wednesday, Ejiofor declared that the nation’s collective descent into lawlessness has reached a disgraceful and terrifying new low.

According to the IPOB lawyer, the abduction is not an ordinary crime but a calculated, blasphemous assault on the judiciary,one of the last fragile pillars still upholding Nigeria’s battered republic.

He further recalled that only a few months ago, legal practitioners were gruesomely murdered in Anambra and Benue States, and to date, their killers still roam the streets freely.

Ejiofor said that what makes this incident even more chilling is the calculated use of camouflage uniforms to project false legitimacy, an act that not only delayed intervention but also deeply betrayed public trust.

The full statement reads:

“Our collective descent into lawlessness has reached a disgraceful and terrifying new low.

On Saturday, at approximately 7:30 PM, Hon. Justice E.G. Umokoro of the Bayelsa State High Court, Yenagoa, was abducted at gunpoint in front of Kilimanjaro Eateries, along the Ekeki axis of the state capital.

Pause and let that sink in: a sitting High Court judge—a custodian of justice and a symbol of the rule of law—was brazenly snatched from the street like a petty target by gun-wielding criminals dressed in camouflage. The very uniform meant to represent authority and security has now become a cover for terror.

This is no ordinary crime. It is a direct, blasphemous assault on the judiciary—one of the last fragile pillars still holding up our battered republic.

Only a few months ago, legal practitioners were gruesomely murdered in Anambra and Benue States. Their killers still walk free. Now, the criminal enterprise has escalated. They no longer just kill in the shadows—they abduct justice in broad daylight.

If judges are no longer safe in Nigeria, who then is? When those tasked with upholding the Constitution are hunted by the lawless, what hope is left for the ordinary citizen?

What makes this even more chilling is the calculated deception—the use of camouflage uniforms to project false legitimacy. This not only delayed intervention but also completely betrayed public trust. By the time the ruse was uncovered, a High Court judge had been whisked away—in a state capital, no less—with impunity.

We must now confront a sobering truth: camouflage is no longer a symbol of protection—it has become the perfect disguise for predators. It must be regulated with urgency. Police officers deployed to civilian spaces must be barred from wearing camouflage. That uniform has been hijacked—weaponized by criminals who now blend seamlessly into our communities, manipulating fear and eroding public vigilance.

Across Nigeria, insecurity festers—from our highways to our homes, from farmlands to courtrooms. Criminals grow bolder. Security agencies appear overwhelmed. And the moral authority of the Nigerian state continues to bleed out, slowly but surely.

We cannot afford silence.The abduction of Hon. Justice E.G. Umokoro is not just another kidnapping—it is a violent blow to the very heart of our democracy. It is a loud, chilling indictment of our security architecture and the government’s capacity to protect its most sacred institutions.

I call on all security agencies—the Police, DSS, Military, NSCDC—to break protocol, collapse silos, and act with unified urgency and uncompromising resolve to secure the immediate and unconditional release of Hon. Justice Umokoro.

Anything less emboldens the enemies of our nation and confirms the collapse of public order.Enough is enough.The judiciary must be protected. Our streets must be reclaimed. Camouflage must no longer be a mask for mayhem.

Justice is under siege. And when justice is shackled, none of us is free.”

Enugwu Agidi Youths Protest Against EEDC’s Exploitative Estimated Billing



Members of Enugwu Agidi community , in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, staged a peaceful protest on Tuesday against the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), decrying years of alleged extortion and exploitation through estimated billing, despite little or no electricity supply.

The protest, which drew hundreds of residents including youths and the elderly was held at the EEDC office in Enugwu Agidi.

Protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as "Enugwu Agidi Has No Light," "Power Resistance Enugwu Agidi out cry to EEDC," "We Say No to Load Shedding," and "EEDC Must Respect Our Rights."

Speaking during the protest, Comrade Onwuora Chinedu, the convener of the South East Electricity Consumers Association, Enugwu Agidi Chapter, described the protest as necessary and overdue.

According to him, the EEDC continues to issue high electricity bills to the community without supplying power.

"We are tired of paying for electricity we don’t receive. It’s pure exploitation,"

"In 1986, we contributed money from our agricultural produce to install electricity in Enugwu Agidi. NEPA did not contribute a dime,we only invited them for commissioning. Since then, we have been maintaining the infrastructure without any support from EEDC."Comrade Onwuora said.

He explained that for the past four months, the EEDC had disconnected the town’s electricity supply, claiming the energy was being redistributed to neighboring communities.

"This is unacceptable. We installed this electricity network ourselves. Why should we be denied service so that others can benefit from what we labored for?" he asked.

Onwuora demanded that EEDC prioritize power supply to Enugwu Agidi and fully comply with the mandate of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to meter all households, thereby eliminating estimated billing.

“EEDC charges households as much as N20,000 monthly through estimated billing,even when no power is supplied. This is fraudulent. NERC directed that no billing should occur without prepaid meters. EEDC also forces consumers to fund repairs by buying wires, poles, cables, and transformers, and still demands payment for installation. According to NERC, those are the company’s responsibilities,” he added.

He further called for the immediate removal of the current field manager, alleging that the situation had worsened since he assumed office.

Onwuora appealed to the Enugwu Agidi Progressive Union to intervene before the matter escalates.

Also speaking, the youth leader of Enugwu Agidi, Hon. Okesabuikem Okongwu, said the community was fed up with estimated billing and the exploitation that comes with it.

"More than 80% of our residents are on postpaid billing. Many applied for prepaid meters, but EEDC has refused to issue them because estimated billing is more lucrative for the company. Yet, despite the high bills, we hardly have electricity. Since the appointment of the current field manager, things have gone from bad to worse,” he stated.

He reiterated the youths’ resolve to continue protesting until their demands are met and urged the town union to act swiftly to prevent further deterioration of the situation.

In response to the protest, the Acting President of Enugwu Agidi Town Union, Ozo Chidozie Igwenu , commended the youths for conducting a peaceful demonstration.

“I was in Awka when I received calls about a crisis in Enugwu Agidi. I had to rush back using a borrowed car,” . “Your grievances are valid and clearly visible. As a town union, we were not aware of EEDC’s current activities, and we will never support anything that harms our people.”he said.

Igwenu acknowledged that the lack of power supply has led to a rise in cable and transformer vandalism in the community.

“Just last night, vandals destroyed cables worth over N2.4 million. If power were regularly supplied, this wouldn’t be happening. Everything you have said is true, and I assure you that the town union will step in immediately to address these issues. After this meeting, we will convene and decide on the next steps to ensure electricity is restored to Enugwu Agidi,” he added .

Anambra 2025: There Must Be Change of Government -Anglican Priest


Fiery and widely respected Anglican priest, Rev. Canon Lumen Kristy Eboh of the God in Action Adoration Ministry, has declared that a change of leadership is inevitable in Anambra State come November 8, 2025.

The priest boldly prophesied that Sir Paul Chukwuma, the governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), will emerge victorious in the forthcoming election.

Rev. Canon Eboh made this declaration during a Friday night vigil at the ministry’s grounds in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, which was attended by thousands of worshippers and dignitaries, including the YPP Deputy Governorship candidate, Uzu Okagbue.

“Sir Paul Chukwuma is the next Governor of Anambra State,” Rev. Canon Eboh proclaimed to a cheering congregation.

He condemned the current administration in Anambra State, accusing it of plunging the state into "darkness," both in leadership and governance.

Anambra deserves light," the priest asserted, lamenting that the present government has “lost its way” and failed to meet the expectations of the people.

Despite his criticism, the clergyman offered hope, declaring that the YPP candidates, Sir Paul Chukwuma and Uzu Okagbue, are coming with integrity, a deep sense of purpose, and, most importantly, the fear of God.

According to him, their leadership will restore dignity to governance and make Anambra “shine like a thousand stars.”

Rev. Canon Eboh personally vouched for the character and capability of both Chukwuma and Okagbue, assuring the faithful that the YPP team would not disappoint.

“Victory is yours,” he declared confidently before inviting Uzu Okagbue to address the crowd.

In his brief remarks, Uzu Okagbue expressed gratitude for the warm reception and the prayers of the faithful. He said that Sir Paul Chukwuma is thoroughly prepared for leadership and will bring a fresh approach to governance marked by humility, vision, and compassion.

Addressing concerns raised by the public, Okagbue assured worshippers that under a YPP administration, oppressive taxation policies affecting small businesses would be eliminated. Instead, the government would focus on empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive.

On the critical issue of security, Okagbue gave a solemn assurance that the current wave of insecurity plaguing the state would be decisively tackled.

“Under our leadership, insecurity will become a thing of the past,” he promised.

Interestingly, earlier reports this year had suggested that Rev. Canon Eboh had previously endorsed Governor Charles Soludo. However, in a sharp and unequivocal departure from that perception, the priest used the Friday vigil to clarify his position.

“There will be a change of government in November,” “The YPP is ready to take over from Soludo, and God is with them.” he stated.

Ejiofor Fires Back at Alia:Go Back to Your Pulpit” Over ‘No Self-Defence’ Claim



The lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has strongly criticized the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Hyacinth Alia, for advising his people not to defend themselves against attacks.

In a statement titled “The Tragedy of Silence in the Face of Slaughter: A Response to Gov. Alia’s Pronouncement” issued on Friday, Ejiofor described the Governor’s stance as evidence that he is ill-prepared for leadership.

According to Ejiofor, the Governor’s call for unarmed and defenseless citizens to refrain from self-defense is not only a dereliction of duty but also a betrayal of the collective suffering endured by the people of Benue, who are facing one of the worst humanitarian crises in Nigeria’s modern history.

He said that any leader who cannot shield his people from violence is unfit to hold office.

Ejiofor further argued that if Governor Alia has become disconnected from the harsh realities facing his constituents and insists on preaching peace where none exists, it is the constitutional responsibility of the Benue State House of Assembly to intervene and restore leadership that reflects realism rather than idealistic denial.

The statement reads in part:“It is both distressing and disheartening to hear Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State himself a former Reverend Father openly discourage the very people he vowed to protect from defending themselves against the brutal incursions of killer herdsmen. His call for unarmed and defenseless citizens to avoid self-defense is not only a failure of leadership; it is a profound betrayal of the Benue people’s collective agony amid one of the worst humanitarian crises in Nigeria’s history.

Governor Alia’s stance confirms what many have feared: he is tragically unsuited for the brutal realities of political leadership. While his clerical training may have prepared him for the pulpit, it has not equipped him for the urgent and often harsh demands of governing a state under siege. The question must now be asked: how many more lives will be lost before Governor Alia understands that prayer without decisive action is mere pious abdication?

It is particularly shameful that, while other respected Nigerians—including past and present security chiefs have urged indigenous communities under repeated, unprovoked attack to defend themselves as a legitimate means of survival, the Governor of a frontline state like Benue chooses to advocate for passive submission in the face of death. This is not leadership; it is surrender.

If the Tinubu-led Federal Government lacks the moral and political courage to declare a State of Emergency in Benue, then the responsibility now falls squarely on the Benue State House of Assembly. The Nigerian Constitution empowers them to act decisively in defense of their people. If Governor Alia is out of touch with his people’s suffering and continues to preach peace where there is none, it is incumbent upon the House to invoke constitutional mechanisms and return him to the pulpit where idealism, not pragmatic leadership, belongs.

This is not merely a political matter it is about lives, about families destroyed, farmlands razed, and entire communities living in fear in their ancestral homes. Any leader who cannot stand between his people and the sword is simply unfit to sit on the throne.

May God deliver Benue State from the paralysing grip of a Governor who has lost both the will to lead and the conscience to care.”

Akpoazaa Foundation Partners COOU to Ignite Campus Spirit with Quiz Competition


By Our Correspondent

The Akpoazaa Foundation, in collaboration with the Student Union Government (SUG) of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus, organized an Interdepartmental Quiz Competition on Wednesday of the previous week.

The event was proudly facilitated by the university’s Secretary-General, Comrade Amarachi Okonkwo, in partnership with Dr. Frank Igbojindu, the Chief Executive Officer of the Akpoazaa Foundation.

Hosted by Dr. Igbojindu, who also serves as the Chairman of the Akpoazaa Foundation and CEO of Best Brain Contest, the competition featured 20 contestants representing various departments across the university. Participants showcased their intellectual abilities and academic knowledge in a highly engaging and competitive atmosphere.

At the end of the competition, Emeghebi Christian from the Department of Medical Laboratory Science clinched the first position, followed by Okoli Sochidizumma from the Department of Entrepreneurship in second place, and Obasi Greatness from the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in third. The top three contestants received various cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding performances.

In his remarks, Dr. Frank Igbojindu expressed his appreciation for Comrade Amarachi Okonkwo, applauding her visionary leadership and dedication to student development.

He emphasized the importance of investing in education, describing it as a strategic means of securing long-term prosperity for future generations.

Dr. Igbojindu further reiterated his foundation’s commitment to educational advancement by highlighting a recent initiative, where the best graduating students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, were awarded ₦500,000 each along with automatic employment opportunities.

According to him, the interdepartmental quiz competition was a resounding success, aimed at fostering healthy academic rivalry and motivating students to strive for excellence in their respective disciplines.

He affirmed that the Akpoazaa Foundation will continue to support programs that empower young people and promote academic brilliance.

Human Rights Lawyer to Tinubu: Invoke Emergency Powers Over Benue Massacres



Human rights lawyer and lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to invoke Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and declare a state of emergency in Benue State.

This, he argued, is necessary to stem the tide of ongoing massacres allegedly perpetrated by Fulani militants against the indigenous people of the state.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday and made available to our correspondent in Awka, the Anambra State capital, Ejiofor condemned the escalating violence and the apparent inaction of the state government.

He also issued a scathing rebuke to the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, urging him to consider returning to the pulpit if the responsibilities of political leadership have become too burdensome for him.

Quoting Section 305(1) of the Constitution, Ejiofor noted that the President is constitutionally empowered to declare a state of emergency in any part of the country facing a breakdown of public order or imminent threat to life and property.

He maintained that the situation in Benue has clearly met and exceeded this threshold.

Ejiofor, a legal practitioner, public affairs analyst, and advocate for accountable governance, said that the persistent and coordinated attacks reportedly carried out by foreign militias infiltrating through the Cameroon border, as acknowledged by the Governor constitute a direct challenge to Nigeria’s national security and sovereignty.

He stressed that leadership in times of crisis requires more than symbolic gestures or evasive rhetoric.

"The Governor, as a former spiritual leader turned political figure, must recognise that in times of crisis, leadership demands constitutional fidelity, courage, and unequivocal action not deflection or denial,"

"If the burden of political office has become too heavy, perhaps a return to the pulpit may better serve his conscience and calling."Ejiofor said.

The full statement reads:

“In light of the relentless and gruesome massacre of innocent civilians in Benue State, and following the recent exoneration of Fulani herdsmen by the Executive Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, it has become imperative for the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to invoke its constitutional mandate to protect lives and preserve national security.

Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) empowers the President to declare a state of emergency where there is a breakdown of public order or imminent danger to life and property. Given the scale and persistence of the ongoing attacks allegedly perpetrated by foreign militias infiltrating through the Cameroon border as reported by the Governor this constitutional threshold has clearly been surpassed.

This is no time for political appeasement or partisan manoeuvring. The foremost duty of any government is the protection of its citizens and the defence of its territorial integrity. By absolving known actors and trivialising verified threats, the Benue State Government risks eroding the very foundation of national security coordination.

The Federal Government must empower the Nigerian security apparatus with full operational autonomy to launch comprehensive operations aimed at identifying, isolating, and neutralising the foreign insurgents terrorising peaceful communities. These unprovoked assaults on the aboriginal people of Yelwata and surrounding villages must be confronted with a unified national resolve.

The Governor, as a former spiritual leader turned political figure, must recognise that in times of crisis, leadership demands constitutional fidelity, courage, and unequivocal action not deflection or denial. If the burden of political office has become too heavy, perhaps a return to the pulpit may better serve his conscience and calling.

The lives of Benue’s indigenous peoples must never be reduced to political bargaining chips. Their only 'crime,' it seems, is their ancestral heritage and legitimate claim to their homeland. Nigeria stands at a crossroads. History will neither forget nor forgive those who remained silent or complicit in the face of a preventable genocide. The time for rhetorical posturing is over. The time for decisive constitutional action is now.

Let justice rise not as a whisper, but as a national roar. For every drop of innocent blood cries out not just for attention, but for justice.”

Justice Demanded: Over 100 Killed by Fulani Herdsmen – Lawyer Speaks Out

Human rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has demanded truth, accountability, and decisive action following the murder of over 100 people in the Yelewata community of Benue State by Fulani herdsmen.

Ejiofor, the lead counsel for the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), made this call in his Monday Musing, titled:"THE STENCH OF SLAUGHTER IN BENUE – WHOSE AGENDA IS THIS?"

He asked:

“What has Nigeria become when her citizens are hunted like game, and those constitutionally entrusted with the monopoly of force remain deafeningly silent?”

According to him, what makes the tragedy even more alarming is that it occurred under the watch of a significantly deployed security presence at a time when the Chief of Army Staff and other top security officials were reportedly operating directly from Benue State.

The statement reads:

“Over the weekend, Nigeria was once again drenched in the blood of the innocent.More than 100 lives—men, women, children, the elderly—were reportedly massacred in Yelewata community, Benue State, by bloodthirsty Fulani herdsmen. These Nigerians were not soldiers on a battlefield. They were sleeping in their ancestral homes—butchered like animals in the dead of night.

What manner of evil drives such carnage?

What has Nigeria become when her citizens are hunted like game, and those constitutionally entrusted with the monopoly of force remain deafeningly silent?

Even more troubling is that this atrocity took place under the watchful eyes of a heavily deployed security presence—at a time when the Chief of Army Staff and other top security heads were said to have relocated their operational base to Benue.

So we must ask:, What exactly are they commanding?, Who exactly are they protecting?, Is this criminal negligence or complicity wrapped in official silence?Are we being told the truth or has leadership become so desensitized that mass murder is now reduced to cold statistics in press releases?

Or worse still, is there an insidious agenda one that seeks to normalize ethnic cleansing, displace communities, and render a historic people stateless within their own nation?

This is not just a Benue tragedy. It is a national disgrace.

We must speak now—or history will record our silence as complicity.

Benue is bleeding. Nigeria is decaying. The center has not merely collapsed; it is rotting from within.

To the victims, we owe more than pity—we owe remembrance, and above all, justice.

To the perpetrators—we demand consequences.

And to those in power, we demand truth, accountability, and decisive action.

This carnage must not be buried with the dead.It must be named.It must be condemned.And it must never be forgotten—until justice prevails, and peace is restored.”

Tinubu Under Fire for Snubbing Ajasin in Democracy Honours

The family of the late Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for excluding their father from the list of individuals honoured during the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations.

In a statement issued by Chief Tokunbo Ajasin on behalf of the family, they described the list of June 12 heroes as "incomplete and historically flawed" without the inclusion of Chief Ajasin, a foundational figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle.

According to Tokunbo, the family was shocked and deeply disappointed that their father’s name was absent from those recognized by President Tinubu, who conferred national honours on individuals described as heroes of the June 12 struggle.

“It is not only surprising but deeply troubling that the name of Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin a central figure in the fight for democracy and the acknowledged leader of NADECO was completely ignored in the 2025 honours list,” the statement read.

Chief Tokunbo Ajasin emphasized that his father, a former Governor of Ondo State, played a dual role as the leader of both Afenifere and NADECO, two pivotal organizations at the forefront of Nigeria’s resistance against military rule. He argued that failing to acknowledge such a towering figure in the narrative of Nigeria’s democratic evolution reflects a selective and revisionist approach to history.

“The omission is not just an oversight; it is a disservice to Nigeria’s democratic memory,” Tokunbo added, urging President Tinubu to ensure that future recognitions reflect a more accurate and inclusive account of the sacrifices made to attain democratic governance.

The statement reads in full:

"The incomplete list of June 12 Heroes
Much as I hate to get personal, I would be lying if I didn’t say that I and other members of my family were rather surprised that the name of our dad was not among those honoured by President Tinubu as he doled out National honours to June 12 heroes. Besides, I have been inundated with calls from friends and well-wishers wondering why my late dad’s name, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin was omitted from the list.
As is characteristic of the Ajasin family, our deeds are mostly altruistic, since there is usually no craving for any reward, notwithstanding our privations. Consequently, our deeds and performances very often go unnoticed/unrecognized. However, it is unconscionable that the leader of the group (NADECO) best known for fighting the military and bringing about the much-touted democracy never got a single mention in the scheme of June 12 celebration/anniversary
I do not know whether this conspicuous omission was deliberate or not, but be it known that Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin CFR in his lifetime doubled as the Leader of Afenifere and NADECO, the two organizations that were the arrowheads and in the forefront of the fight against military dictatorship. It was Afenifere that provided the leadership for all the other activists and civil society organizations which included the Campaign for Democracy (CD), Committee for Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Movement for National Reformation (MNR), National Conscience Party (NCP) Concerned Professionals (CP), etc.
According to Chief Osoba, former governor of Ogun State in his book, “Battle lines: Adventures in Power”, the 49 founding signatories of NADECO were: Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Mallam Lawal Dambazzau, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Major General Adeyinka Adebayo (retd.), Chief Bola Ige, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Professor Anya O. Anya, Colonel Yohanna Madaki, Reverend Father Moses Adasu, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti, Reverend Tunji Adebiyi, Chief Ade Ojo, Chief Ralph Obioha, Chief Empire Kanu, Chief Michael Anyiam, Dr. Sola Soile, Vice Admiral Akin Aduwo, Chief E. Duru, Mr. Nick Dazzang, Mr. Labaran Maku, Dr A. A. Akingba, Mr Babas Eko Oyekanmi, Mr Alex Ayatolla, Mrs Sarah Jubril, Alhaji Ganiyu Dawodu, Mr O. P. Edodo, Mr A. Barber, Otunba Olabiyi Durojaiye, Chief Olusegun Osoba, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, Alhaji Mohammed Siraj Hamza, Dr. Wahab Dosunmu, Otunba Aboyade Cole, Major General Olufemi Olutoye (rtd), Chief Sobo Sowemimo, Dr. Steve Achema, Chief Olaniwun Ajayi, Chief Olu Falae, Brigadier-General Jonah Jang, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Mr. Alao Aka-Bashorun, Mr. Emmanuel Njiwah, Chief Vincent Nwizugbo and Dr. Uma Eleazu
Other prominent NADECO leaders include but were not limited to Mr. Ayo Opadokun, Mr. Wale Osun, General Alani Akinrinade, Femi Falana, Bola Tinubu, Lam Adesina, Chief Segun Adegoke, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, Clement Nwankwo, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu and Senator Kofo Bucknor to name a few.
While Chief Ajasin was the leader of NADECO, Chief Anthony Enahoro was the Deputy leader, and Mr Ayo Opadokun was the General Secretary. None of these names appeared on the published list!
Even though the above list is by no means exhaustive, yet, most of the above names are missing from the list of heroes of June 12 that got published today. So what happened? Why are the bureaucrats getting it wrong? At the risk of being immodest, my father, our family and indeed the Owo community were subjected to all sorts of risks from the maurading goon of the Abacha regime. Even where no awards or rewards are dispensed to these heroes of democracy, they certainly deserve to be recognised and mentioned in a country that has a dearth of heroes. Many members of the group fled abroad on exile, others were imprisoned while some were martyed, yet many are still alive to tell their stories".

The Quiet Revolution of Nonye Soludo: Uplifting Lives Through Simple Acts

The First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Mrs Nonye Soludo, has continued to earn admiration across the state for her compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to improving lives,particularly among the underprivileged.

At a recent event held at the Dunukofia Local Government Headquarters in Ukpo, Dr. Soludo disbursed ₦54,250,000 in recapitalization grants to 1,085 petty female traders. Among the many beneficiaries, one woman, Chibuzo Mary, described her as “a mother with a caring heart.”

She said that recapitalization grant will assist her recoup her lost life especially now that her husband is dead .

During the programe two disabled persons met their life changing grace which ultimately put similes on their faces and turned around their situation for good

In a statement released by her media aide, Daniel Ezeigwe, on Saturday, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo was lauded for her consistent efforts in uplifting the vulnerable efforts that long predate her tenure as First Lady. Her signature initiative, “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo,” was launched years before she assumed her current role and continues to address health challenges and promote well-being across the state.

According to Ezeigwe, Dr. Soludo’s presence at any event is both healing and empowering—emotionally, physically, and socially.

The statement reads in part:“If you’ve never spent time around the wife of the Anambra State Governor, you’re missing a crucial perspective on the fullness of life. This is a woman whose existence subtly reshapes your outlook. Nonye Soludo is not merely a governor’s wife; she is a symbol of extraordinary humility. Her presence alone quiets doubt. You might disagree with my perception of her, and that’s fine—but perhaps you simply haven’t seen the real Nonye Soludo.”

A striking example of her character unfolded two weeks ago at the aforementioned event in Dunukofia. As the grants were being distributed to the traders who stood in line a few meters from the First Lady—Dr. Soludo noticed two physically impaired individuals struggling to move across the grassy terrain.

Without hesitation, she called upon the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, who was present at the event. She leaned in and whispered something into his ear. While the program concluded and guests began to disperse, Mrs. Soludo remained seated—calm and composed, as if waiting for something unseen by others.

Nearly 40 minutes passed. Then, to the astonishment of everyone present, two brand new wheelchairs arrived—dispatched from Awka at her request. The Commissioner had earlier urged her to allow the local government chairman to handle the handover later, but she declined. She insisted on staying until the wheelchairs arrived, determined to personally deliver them.

Emotion overwhelmed the crowd. Not only did Dr. Soludo ensure the two individuals were comfortably seated in their new wheelchairs, she also gave them financial support to help sustain them. That moment, quiet but profound, revealed the very essence of who she is: a woman whose kindness precedes her name and whose acts of service are rooted in genuine love for others.

This wasn’t an isolated instance. Despite her high-profile position, Dr. Nonye Soludo avoids the spotlight when extending help. Her gestures of compassion often go undocumented driven not by politics, but by a deeply personal ethic of service.

Long before Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo became a national figure, Nonye Soludo was already a quiet force for good transforming lives in ways that rarely made headlines. Her efforts now serve as a vital complement to her husband’s governance. If Anambra is truly in the hands of God, then two-thirds of the story belongs to Chukwuma. The rest is owed to Nonye’s unwavering humanism and extraordinary heart for the "little things" that matter most.

Champion Newspapers Honours De Imperial Philanthropic Family

Champion Newspapers, one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected media establishments, has honoured De Imperial Philanthropic Family with the 2024 award for Most Outstanding Philanthropic Organisation in Nigeria.

De Imperial Philanthropic Family, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), was founded with the singular purpose of uplifting humanity through sustained philanthropic efforts and community development initiatives.

The prestigious award recognises the organisation’s unwavering commitment to making a positive impact across Nigeria, particularly through its focus on education, healthcare, and community empowerment.

A frontrunner in grassroots philanthropy, De Imperial Philanthropic Family continues to lead in initiatives aimed at promoting educational opportunities, improving healthcare delivery, and fostering social welfare.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, the President of De Imperial Philanthropic Family, High Chief Dr. Sir Darlington Nwabunike (Eze Nwakaibeya Ogbabalu Aku N’Anwu Ojoto), described the honour as a validation of the organisation’s relentless dedication to national development.

“This recognition is a testament to the tireless efforts of our organisation in promoting education, healthcare, and social upliftment across Nigeria,” he stated.

He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to transforming lives and uplifting communities, emphasizing that their mission is anchored in the values of compassion, integrity, and service.

Dr. Nwabunike highlighted one of the organisation’s most impactful initiatives,its education-focused scholarship scheme.

“We proudly launched our educational programme in 2023 with a half million scholarship grant for Junior Secondary School students in Southeast Nigeria. In addition, we recently unveiled a ₦50 million scholarship grant targeted at the best-performing JAMB students nationwide for 2025,” he explained.

He expressed profound gratitude to Champion Newspapers for the recognition, and extended appreciation to all individuals and partners who have supported the organisation’s vision over the years.

“This award inspires us to continue our philanthropic mission with even greater passion and commitment. Our pledge remains unchanged: to serve, to inspire, and to be agents of meaningful change in Nigeria. Thank you for believing in our vision,” he added.

Champion Newspapers Celebrates Darlington Nwabunike’s Remarkable Leadership



The President of De Imperial Philanthropic Family, High Chief Dr Sir Darlington Nwabunike (Eze Nwakaibeya Ogbabalu Aku N'Anwu Ojoto) has been recognized for his outstanding leadership and dedication with the prestigious 2024 Excellence in Leadership Award by Champion Newspapers.

Champion Newspapers, a respected media organization known for highlighting exemplary leaders, selected Dr Nwabunike based on his unwavering commitment to societal betterment and visionary leadership.

The honor underscores his remarkable contributions to community development, philanthropy, and leadership excellence in the country

The award ceremony took place on Saturday at Eko Hotel and Suites Victoria Island Lagos, amidst distinguished guests and members of the community.

In his acceptance speech, Dr Nwabunike emphasized the importance of servant leadership and community service, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
“Leadership is about service, integrity, and dedication to making a positive impact,” “I am honored to receive this recognition, and I pledge to continue working tirelessly for the betterment of our society.”he stated.

High Chief Dr Darlington Nwabunike, CEO Saint Buniks Group has been at the forefront of philanthropic initiatives through his personal initiatives and De Imperial Philanthropic Family, championing causes that promote education, health, and social welfare.

His leadership style combines innovation with compassion, earning him respect across various sectors.

Dr Nwabunike recently was honored as the Humanitarian Service Personality of the year award by the Sun Newspaper.

From Hope to Reckoning: 25 Years of Civil Rule Through Biafran Lens



By Sir Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor

As Nigeria commemorates 25 years of uninterrupted civil rule and two years under the current administration, we must look beyond official ceremonies and rehearsed platitudes.

For the Biafran people,particularly the Igbo nation this is not a time for celebration but for sober reflection.

We must confront the painful contradictions of a democracy that has, too often, excluded, oppressed, and vilified the very voices that cry out for justice, equity, and self-determination.

Have the Fruits of Democracy Truly Reached Alaigbo?

In this so-called Nigerian democracy, do our people feel protected or persecuted?

Are our communities in the South-East being empowered, or are they continually subjected to military incursions, economic strangulation, and political marginalization?

Is the Average Biafran Better Off Today?

With each fuel price hike, currency devaluation, and broken promise, are our traders, artisans, and youths thriving or merely struggling to survive in a federation that seems structured to frustrate them?

Is the Economy Liberating or Suppressing Our Potential?

Despite our well-known industriousness and innovation, Biafran businesses face hostile policies, poor infrastructure, and deliberate exclusion.

Where is the economic framework that empowers Ndigbo instead of punishing them for daring to succeed?

Are We Safer Or Under Siege?

From Orlu to Aba, from Enugu to Nnewi, our people live under the constant threat of state-sanctioned violence, unchecked brutality, and rampant insecurity.

Peace has become a privilege, not a right. But who protects the people when those sworn to protect become the source of their deepest fears?

Unity or Uniformity?

Is Nigeria truly a union of equal nations,or a coerced marriage where one region dominates, while others are silenced and forced to conform?

Can unity exist without justice? Can peace endure without truth?

A Call to Courage and Conscience—For Biafra and Beyond

Democracy if it is to hold any meaning must be more than slogans and periodic elections.

It must respond to the cries of the marginalized, not just the aspirations of the elite.
It must recognize the right of every people—including Biafrans—to exist, to speak, to be heard, and, if necessary, to chart their own course.

This Democracy Day, let us raise not only our voices but our values.

Let us demand a system that respects the dignity of every region, every tribe, and every tongue.
Let us ensure that our children do not inherit the silence of the oppressed.

Because democracy, like freedom, dies in fear and thrives in truth.

Nigeria cannot rise while it keeps some of its most vibrant peoples on their knees.

This is not the time to fold our arms.
This is the time to think, to organize, and to reclaim our dignity peacefully, lawfully, and resolutely.

To remember June 12 is to remember the cost of silence.
To honour it is to demand a federation built on fairness or the freedom to build our own.

May the voice of Biafra never be silenced.
The journey continues not by chance, but by choice.

Sir Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor, Esq (KSC)

Legal Practitioner, Public Affairs Analyst & Advocate for Accountable Governance

June 12: NIDO Decries Snub to Prof. Nwosu, Demands Recognition


The Ndi Igbo Intellectual & Cultural Development Organization (NIDO) has expressed outrage over the lack of recognition accorded to Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) that conducted the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Despite the election being widely regarded as the most credible in Nigeria's history, Nwosu's contributions have been largely ignored by successive governments.

The group in a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to our Correspondent said the deliberate act of not honouring Prof Nwosu and recognizing June 12 was a deservice .

NIDO condemned the deliberate act of denying Prof. Nwosu the honour he deserves, citing it as a recipe for poor performance by subsequent electoral umpires.
The organization noted that recognizing the June 12 election while ignoring Nwosu's role is hypocritical and unacceptable.
NIDO emphasized that Nwosu's leadership and innovative approach to the electoral process, particularly the use of the "Option A4" voting system, were instrumental in making the June 12 election a success.
NIDO demands that Prof. Nwosu be accorded the recognition he deserves, including the naming of a national edifice or democratic institution after him.

The organization urges the Anambra State government and other southeastern state governments to immortalize Prof. Nwosu's legacy.

The organization noted that while Nigeria has made significant strides in consolidating democracy, the electoral system still faces numerous challenges, including the need for reforms and increased trust in the electoral process.

NIDO's statement serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigeria's democratic development.

"By acknowledging Prof. Nwosu's role in the June 12 election, the government can demonstrate its commitment to valuing and promoting democratic ideals" it stated.

Unity Through Forgiveness: MACBAN Deputy’s Eid al-Adha Appeal



The National Deputy Director General of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Sarkin Fulani of Awka, Anambra State, Alhaji Gidado Siddiki, has called on Nigerians to embrace the deeper values of Eid al-Adha ,forgiveness, empathy, and selflessness as a means to foster national unity and sustainable development.

In his Sallah message, Alhaji Siddiki urged citizens to let go of past grievances and painful memories, and instead choose reconciliation and peace as a national ethos.

"Two wrongs can never make a right," he said, emphasizing that peace and sustainable coexistence are only achievable through mutual understanding and the courage to forgive.

Full Statement reads:“As Muslims across the world commemorate Eid al-Adha—a sacred festival honoring the profound faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and God’s merciful intervention—I extend heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians, especially members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).This holy occasion, grounded in sacrifice, obedience, and devotion, offers a time for spiritual reflection and moral recommitment. I call on all Nigerians to internalize the deeper meaning of Eid al-Adha: forgiveness, empathy, and selflessness. Let us cast aside the burdens of past grievances and choose the path of reconciliation and national unity. Two wrongs can never make a right; lasting peace and coexistence demand mutual respect and the will to forgive.I particularly urge our members in the South East to continue nurturing peaceful and respectful relationships with their host communities. Avoid any actions that could threaten the harmony we have worked so hard to build over the years.I encourage all pastoralists to report any challenges, grievances, or traumatic incidents to their local leadership. Our leaders are best positioned to escalate such matters to the appropriate authorities to seek redress through lawful and civil channels. Taking the law into one’s own hands is never justified. Due process and constructive dialogue remain our most reliable tools for achieving justice and lasting peace.Furthermore, I strongly reject the prevailing narrative that unfairly associates pastoralists with criminal activity. This stereotype is both unjust and dangerous. Criminality knows no ethnic, religious, or professional boundaries. We must resist all forms of stigmatization and uphold the principle that justice must be individual, not collective.I call upon all tiers of government—federal, state, and local—to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities by protecting the lives and property of all citizens, including those in pastoral communities. Security, inclusivity, and equal protection under the law must be guaranteed for every Nigerian, without exception.To our members in Anambra State, I strongly encourage you to obtain and protect your Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the November 2025 elections. Civic participation is vital in electing leaders who understand and are committed to defending our rights and interests.Lastly, I extend my sincere appreciation to the governments and people of the South East for their continued hospitality, and for enabling our members to conduct their legitimate cattle breeding and trade peacefully across the region.I urge the government to actively promote inclusivity in governance and national development. Every community—regardless of ethnicity, region, or profession—deserves fair and equitable access to the dividends of democracy.”

Correspondents Sever Ties with NUJ Following Chairman’s Impunity

The Correspondent Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Anambra State has officially distanced itself from the Dr. Emeka Odogwu-led executive in the state, stating that it can no longer tolerate the chairman’s impudent rascality.

Following its June general meeting, the union issued a communique signed by David Eleke (Chairman), Nwanosike Onu (Member), Tony Okafor (Member), Obinna Unaeze (Member), and Emma Elekwa (Secretary), declaring that it would no longer tolerate Odogwu’s impunity in undermining the chapel in the state.

The chapel explained that this dissociation was necessary to protect the union from the draconian, inhumane, and threat-laden environment prevailing within the Anambra State Council of the union, which has made it impossible for them to function effectively and safely.

The full communique reads as follows:"Endorsement of Leadership: The Anambra State Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists hereby unanimously endorses the leadership of Chief Chuks Ilozue and the other members of his Executive Committee (EXCO),Dissociation from Anambra State Council: Due to the high-handedness, threats to life, and other unwholesome behaviors exhibited by Emeka Odogwu, Chairman of the Anambra Council, the leadership and members of the Anambra State Correspondents' Chapel have collectively decided to disassociate themselves from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Anambra State Council, effective immediately,Redirection of Obedience and Loyalty: From this point forward, our obedience and loyalty will be directed to the national body of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, pending the cleansing of the Anambra State Council under Odogwu and its restoration to a state of order and decorum,Payment of Union Dues: We pledge to pay all fees due to the Union directly to the national body within a reasonable period, as practicable,Rationale for Dissociation: This decision was necessitated by the need to protect ourselves from the draconian, inhumane, and threat-infested environment prevailing within the Anambra State Council, which has made it impossible for us to operate effectively and safely, Clarification on the Bus Donated by the Anambra State Government: Regarding the bus donated to our chapel by the state government, which Odogwu is scheming to assign to Tochukwu Ifejika, his sister-in-law and Chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter, for the purpose of running her union we wish to clarify that the bus remains intact and available. Our members have vehemently decided not to surrender the bus or any other property to Odogwu or anyone else for any reason. The bus will continue to be used solely for the purpose for which it was donated,enabling us collectively to attend government functions and other activities,Constitutional Rights: We note that Odogwu’s actions have left us no option but to invoke our constitutional rights, as enshrined in Section 40 (as amended) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to freedom of association and the choice to belong or not belong to any association,Peace Moves and Odogwu’s DSS Intervention: Previously, the Correspondents Chapel made genuine efforts to resolve this impasse, including consulting relevant stakeholders. However, these attempts were thwarted and rebuffed by Odogwu, who unjustifiably involved the Department of State Services (DSS) against the chapel,Finally: We reiterate that associations, unions, and similar organizations are akin to matrimony; no one can be coerced into membership. This is our sincere position, and we stand firmly by it"

IPOB Lawyer Slams Wike's Media Showbiz, Urges Tinubu to Act Amid Soaring Poverty







Human rights lawyer and legal counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rein in the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over what he described as the reckless and wasteful expenditure of public funds on monthly media chats that yield no tangible benefit to Nigerians.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ejiofor expressed grave concern over the reported allocation of hundreds of millions of naira each month to finance the FCT Minister’s media appearances, at a time when the majority of Nigerians are grappling with record inflation, stagnant wages, and deepening poverty.

“It is profoundly disheartening,that in a country where millions of citizens struggle to survive on less than $2 a day ,with limited access to basic healthcare, education, and shelter the government permits such an ostentatious display of vanity. These so-called media engagements serve little purpose beyond political grandstanding and exemplify a gross misplacement of national priorities.”Ejiofor stated,

He further condemned the practice as "the height of unconscionable governance," adding that the funds squandered on a single media edition could be redirected to urgent humanitarian needs across the country.

“For instance, the cost of one month’s media spectacle could fund emergency relief and shelter for thousands displaced by recent floods in Niger State. It could refurbish dilapidated primary schools, equip rural health clinics, or sustain malnutrition programs in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps for several months,” Ejiofor argued.

He noted that while the optics of such spending are troubling, the underlying implications are even more damaging to public trust and national development.

“Nigerians are not asking for a televised circus. They are crying out for competent governance, responsible spending, and leadership that puts the people first,” he said.

Ejiofor called on President Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must call the FCT Minister to order, end this wasteful media charade, and redirect national focus toward effective service delivery. This is not a time for flamboyance or fanfare. Nigeria is in a crisis that demands humility, accountability, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. The Nigerian people deserve better. The time to act is now,” he added.

Editorial:A Life-Changing Crusade,Dr Nonye Soludo’s Healthy Living Initiative

In an age where health crises burden communities and lifestyles turn increasingly sedentary, few initiatives speak as boldly and act as compassionately as the Healthy Living Initiative spearheaded by Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo.

With clarity of purpose and a mother’s heart, Dr. Mrs. Soludo has transformed what began as a personal passion into a state-wide movement, one that not only promotes wellness but actively touches lives. Her campaign against preventable diseases, poor diet, and unhealthy habits is not just rhetoric, it is practical, people-centered, and results-driven.

From schoolchildren to market women, rural dwellers to professionals, the reach of the initiative is far and wide. Through free health screenings, community fitness programmes, dietary education, and mental wellness advocacy, Dr. Mrs. Soludo ensures that health is no longer a luxury but a right every Anambrarian can access.

More than just programmes, she brings a presence. At every outreach, her warmth, sincerity, and deep understanding of the grassroots environment create trust. In areas where health education was once nonexistent, there are now active conversations about nutrition, hygiene, and preventive care.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of the initiative is its emphasis on sustainable change. Children are being taught how to choose fruits and natural food over junk, families are learning to grow backyard gardens, and women are empowered with knowledge that safeguards the health of their households.

In celebrating the Healthy Living Initiative, we also celebrate a woman of vision and action. Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo embodies what true leadership from the heart looks like,quietly powerful, relentlessly kind, and profoundly impactful.

Her work is a reminder that public service is most meaningful when it improves lives in tangible ways. It is our hope that this model of compassionate, community-rooted health advocacy inspires other leaders across Anambra state,Nigeria and beyond.

Health, indeed, is wealth and thanks to Dr. Mrs. Soludo, more lives are living proof.

Editorial:A Life-Changing Crusade,Dr Nonye Soludo’s Healthy Living Initiative

In an age where health crises burden communities and lifestyles turn increasingly sedentary, few initiatives speak as boldly and act as compassionately as the Healthy Living Initiative spearheaded by Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the wife of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo.

With clarity of purpose and a mother’s heart, Dr. Mrs. Soludo has transformed what began as a personal passion into a state-wide movement, one that not only promotes wellness but actively touches lives. Her campaign against preventable diseases, poor diet, and unhealthy habits is not just rhetoric, it is practical, people-centered, and results-driven.

From schoolchildren to market women, rural dwellers to professionals, the reach of the initiative is far and wide. Through free health screenings, community fitness programmes, dietary education, and mental wellness advocacy, Dr. Mrs. Soludo ensures that health is no longer a luxury but a right every Anambrarian can access.

More than just programmes, she brings a presence. At every outreach, her warmth, sincerity, and deep understanding of the grassroots environment create trust. In areas where health education was once nonexistent, there are now active conversations about nutrition, hygiene, and preventive care.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of the initiative is its emphasis on sustainable change. Children are being taught how to choose fruits and natural food over junk, families are learning to grow backyard gardens, and women are empowered with knowledge that safeguards the health of their households.

In celebrating the Healthy Living Initiative, we also celebrate a woman of vision and action. Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo embodies what true leadership from the heart looks like,quietly powerful, relentlessly kind, and profoundly impactful.

Her work is a reminder that public service is most meaningful when it improves lives in tangible ways. It is our hope that this model of compassionate, community-rooted health advocacy inspires other leaders across Anambra state,Nigeria and beyond.

Health, indeed, is wealth and thanks to Dr. Mrs. Soludo, more lives are living proof.

Nigerian Citizen Killed in Switzerland — Lawyer Seeks Justice

Renowned Nigerian human rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has formally petitioned the Swiss government over the alleged extrajudicial killing of Mr. Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, a Nigerian citizen, by Swiss police officers in Lausanne.

The incident, according to Ejiofor, bears striking similarities to the murder of George Floyd in the United States exactly five years earlier.

In a statement titled "The Gruesome Extrajudicial Killing of Mr. Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie by Swiss Police Officers in Lausanne, Switzerland," Ejiofor condemned the Swiss authorities for their inaction and expressed profound concern that the value of Black lives continues to be disregarded, especially when the victims are African nationals living abroad.

Mr. Ekemezie, a native of Awka South of Anambra State in Nigeria, had lived and worked in Switzerland for over a decade. On May 25, 2025, he was allegedly subjected to lethal police brutality in an incident captured on video, which reportedly shows him handcuffed, pinned face-down, and visibly distressed, while a police officer applied excessive force that ultimately proved fatal.

According to Ejiofor, the footage clearly shows that no effort was made to assist or resuscitate Michael, even as he lay motionless. His cries for help went unheard, and he was left to die in full view of those who were meant to protect life.

“No attempt was made to save him. He was subjected to lethal force, and ignored in his most vulnerable moment,until he became lifeless,” Ejiofor said.

In response, Ejiofor’s legal team has submitted petitions to both the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), demanding a swift and transparent diplomatic intervention.

In the petition ,he said that every Nigerian life whether at home or abroad must be treated with dignity and protected without compromise.

The petition calls for the following urgent actions: A full, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Ekemezie’s death,Public disclosure of the identities and roles of all officers involved;The immediate suspension and arrest of the officers pending investigation.

He aldo demanded for An official apology to and adequate compensation for Mr. Ekemezie’s family and concrete institutional reforms to prevent future abuse and ensure accountability.

Ejiofor’s statement further criticized the global and local media silence following the incident. Unlike the global outrage that followed the death of George Floyd in 2020, Mr. Ekemezie’s case has received little to no coverage from major international news outlets such as CNN, BBC, or Al Jazeera. Even within Nigeria, mainstream media coverage has been minimal.

“This silence is not only unacceptable,it is alarming,” the statement read. “It suggests that the life of an African man can be taken without consequence or acknowledgment. We must resist this narrative.”

In the wake of the incident, Nigerians and other African nationals in Switzerland have organized street protests, demanding accountability and justice.

However, Ejiofor notes that the Swiss authorities’ response has so far been lukewarm and insufficient, failing to meet the basic standards of transparency, urgency, and human rights compliance expected in such egregious cases.

Following a formal briefing from the bereaved family, Ejiofor’s legal team initiated both diplomatic and legal proceedings, aimed at invoking international mechanisms for justice and human rights enforcement. The petition to the Swiss Embassy and other international actors reiterates that this case is not an isolated tragedy, but part of a larger pattern of racial injustice and disregard for African lives abroad.

“This is not just about one man’s death—it is about the sanctity of human life, the universal right to justice, and the urgent need for global accountability,” Ejiofor declared.“It is a clarion call to the Nigerian government to stand boldly in defense of its citizens. It is a plea to the Swiss government to rise to its human rights obligations. And it is a demand to the international community, human rights organizations, and media houses to break the silence and speak truth to power.” he stated.

Ejiofor concluded the statement with a firm vow:“As we mourn the painful loss of Mr. Michael Kenechukwu Ekemezie, we remain unwavering in our pursuit of justice for him, for his grieving family, and for all victims of violence and silence. Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done.”

Anambra Keke Drivers Demand Ban on UHBET Over Alleged Extortion


The Anambra State Keke Drivers Forum (AKDF) staged a peaceful protest at the Awka South Secretariat, expressing frustration over alleged extortion by the UHBET.
The protesting drivers claimed that UHBET has deviated from its constitutional duty of enforcing tax compliance, instead acting like security operatives and extorting money from them.

They demanded for disbandment of UHBET,citing alleged extortion and harassment.
They urged the government to stop UHBET from checking vehicle particulars, arguing that it's not within their mandate.

Allegations Against UHBET,the drivers accused UHBET officials of extorting money from them, claiming that they are paying taxes directly to the government.

They alleged that UHBET officials are acting beyond their mandate, engaging in activities that are the preserve of security agencies.

The protesting drivers appealed to Governor Soludo to intervene and ban UHBET, arguing that the agency's activities are not in line with the governor's instructions.
They emphasized their commitment to paying taxes and urged the government to protect their rights.

My Tribute to the Fallen Great Biafran Heroes -IPOB Lawyer



By Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor

Today, the wind carries a solemn echo across our land.
It whispers the names of heroes of fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters,
Gallant Biafrans who stood when standing meant dying,
Who fought when silence meant erasure.

With bowed heads and hearts weighed down by memory, we remember you.
Not merely as victims of a brutal war,
But as the eternal torchbearers of our dignity, our freedom, and our collective identity.

You faced down tanks with bare hands and bold hearts.
You clung to hope when the world turned its back.
You starved, bled, and died,
Not for power or glory,
But for the dream that your children might one day live ,in a land where justice reigns and truth stands unshaken.

You were the mothers who clutched babies in bombed-out shelters,
The boys who became men on battlefields,
The sisters who whispered goodbye at makeshift trenches,
The innocents whose only crime was being Biafran.

We do not mourn you in vain.
In your blood, a seed of resilience was planted.
In your sacrifice, the soul of a nation still rises.

We hear your silent cry: Never forget... never betray.
And we won’t.

Though the guns are silent, your war is not over.
For every tear shed in remembrance is a vow.
A vow that your sacrifice shall never be erased from the pages of history,
nor from the hearts of those who still dare to dream Biafra.

You did not fall, but you rose into eternity.

Rest, gallant souls, beneath the sacred soil of our ancestors.
Rest, even as we march onward,
Bearing your legacy like a flame in the dark.

Ozo emezina.
The struggle continues.
And you will never, ever be forgotten.

#BiafranHeroes
#WeRememberBiafra
#BiafraRemembranceDay
#GallantFallen
#BiafraLivesOn
#30May2025
#NeverForget
#BiafraStruggle
#RestOnFallenHeroes
#JusticeForBiafra
#TheLandRemembers
#InTheirHonor
#BiafraWillRise
#OurHistoryOurPride

Sir Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC)

Anambra:NERC Orders EEDC to Refund 80-Year-Old Widow N475000 for Illegal Billing

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has ordered the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to refund the sum of N475,000 to an 80-year-old retired civil servant and widow in Anambra State.

The refund relates to years of illegal and arbitrary billing, which the commission deemed unjustifiable.

According to NERC, prior to the takeover of electricity distribution by EEDC from the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), the woman had an outstanding balance of N72,000. The regulatory body directed EEDC to deduct this amount from the total accumulated debt of N547,000 and refund the balance to the affected consumer.

The commission ordered EEDC not to disconnect the customer’s electricity supply based on the disputed arrears of over half a million naira.

It also mandated that all future billings be strictly based on actual consumption as determined by the customer's prepaid meter, in line with NERC regulations, and not on estimated or arbitrary charges.

NERC gave EEDC one month to rectify the situation and to begin billing the customer accurately based on her energy usage.

Billing Discrepancies Despite Prepaid Meter
NERC's investigation revealed that EEDC continued billing the consumer N5,000 monthly, a practice that originated during the PHCN era. This persisted even after the consumer migrated to a prepaid metering system in 2023. Despite using a prepaid meter, the customer was still subjected to additional monthly charges, in direct contradiction of regulations.

The commission expressed regret that EEDC failed to halt the illegal billing even after the customer's transition to prepaid metering. The N72,000 originally inherited as debt from PHCN was buried under a growing and unjustified billing cycle, ultimately leading to a claim of N547,000 in arrears.

These directives were issued during a hearing on a petition filed by the widow, who challenged the existence of the alleged arrears.

The Widow’s Ordeal
Recounting her experience, the 80-year-old woman explained that in December 2023, her household’s meter began flashing a red light, making it impossible to recharge. Her son reported the issue to EEDC, and a technician identified only as ThankGod came to inspect the meter. During the inspection, a plastic component reportedly fell from the device, after which the technician informed them the meter had expired.

She said they were without power for almost six months, relying on a generator while awaiting EEDC’s response. Despite visiting the EEDC office repeatedly, she said her concerns were ignored. Eventually, officials revisited her home, confirmed that the meter was faulty, but later accused her of tampering with it,an allegation she strongly denies.

“I did not tamper with the meter.

“The only person who touched it was from EEDC. Yet, they gave me a letter accusing me of tampering. I went to six different senior officials at EEDC, but none took action.”she said.

Despite her protests, EEDC fined her N104,000 for alleged meter tampering, which she paid. Her electricity was finally reconnected in June 2024, after which she received an October bill of N60,000, which included an additional N547,000 in arrears.

“I was shocked. We didn’t have electricity for six months, yet they claimed I owed so much. I’ve been recharging my meter all along,” she said, adding that since October 2024, she has paid over N480,000, not including the N104,000 paid as a fine.

She recalled one instance where she paid only N27,000, prompting EEDC to disconnect her power supply again.

Call for Accountability
Comrade Osita Obi the convener of the Recover Nigeria Project, who accompanied the widow, challenged EEDC’s practice of inheriting only the assets of PHCN while refusing to accept its liabilities.

He said the widow’s husband had paid for two prepaid meters before PHCN was phased out, but only one was delivered. EEDC, he claimed, refused to honour the second meter delivery, arguing that it was not part of their administration.

“I was there when her husband paid for two meters. PHCN only delivered one before the transition to EEDC. When we asked EEDC for the second meter, they refused, saying it wasn’t their responsibility. How can you inherit only assets without inheriting liabilities?” he asked.

He accused EEDC of exploiting consumers and urged NERC to compel the company to deliver the second meter, for which the family had already paid.